This past fall, Claremont held a tax sale, generating funds to address critical infrastructure needs. Balancing necessary improvements while keeping the budget lean is always a challenge, but the city council remains committed to investments that enhance our community. These funds will allow us to tackle long-overdue projects.
At the Jan. 22 meeting, the council discussed how best to allocate these funds. One priority is upgrading city-owned parking lots off Pleasant Street, which need repaving and clearer markings to maximize efficiency. A downtown parking and traffic study is under consideration to improve navigation, prevent trucks from using restricted roads, and enhance accessibility for visitors and businesses.
Claremont’s volunteers have done a fantastic job maintaining the city’s planters, but with additional green spaces created during the Pleasant Street project, it’s important to ensure they are not overwhelmed. Increasing electrical availability on downtown poles will allow for more lighting and seasonal decorations, further enhancing the area. The Parks and Recreation Department and the Planning Office will collaborate to ensure these improvements remain sustainable.
One long-standing concern is the grandstand at Barnes Park, which has been fenced off for years due to safety concerns. The manager suggested removing the grandstand at a cost of $40,000. Some residents have expressed interest in restoring this historic structure; the cost remains unknown. At this time, the council will not allocate funds for the project but welcomes discussions with community groups interested in saving this structure.
Revitalization efforts will continue with additional funding for the cleanup of the Synergy Site along the Sugar River. An additional $9,000 will be added to the LCHIP grant to restore historic windows at City Hall, preserving the building’s character.
Several critical facility upgrades will also move forward. The Police Department’s bathrooms, long overdue for renovations, will receive $103,000 to ensure adequate facilities for officers. The Fire Department will receive $100,000 to replace at least 10 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) units, a crucial investment in firefighter safety. Additionally, long-standing capital improvement projects for the fire station, including parking lot and front ramp paving, will be addressed to improve access and safety for city employees.
Looking ahead, Claremont must prepare for the legal challenge from Eversource, which is disputing its tax assessment. This issue affects many municipalities, and to prepare for a potential settlement, the council will set aside $250,000, in addition to $250,000 which was set aside in the 2025 budget. While we hope these funds will not be needed, planning for a worst-case scenario is a responsible step to protect taxpayers from an unforeseen settlement.
The council will allocate $200,000 for neighborhood paving beyond already scheduled projects, ensuring roads remain a priority. The library’s aging roof, an estimated $150,000 project, will be replaced. The Monadnock Park track, which requires resurfacing every 10 to 15 years, will also receive funding.
Claremont will host The Wall That Heals, a traveling Vietnam War memorial, in June. The council approved $8,500 to help bring this important exhibit to the city, providing an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. Additionally, $14,000 will be used to complete promised improvements from the Pleasant Street revitalization project. A $60,000 upgrade to the HVAC system in the Planning & Development Office will improve heating and cooling efficiency, creating a more comfortable workspace for staff and visitors.
Finally, the council approved $45,000 to cover invoices from the previous budget season that arrived too late to be processed within that year.
These projects represent a responsible investment in Claremont’s future. The council will review final approvals at the Feb. 12 meeting. Over the past few years, during my terms as Mayor, the council has made significant progress in addressing infrastructure needs. This work will not have any impact on the city tax rate. By continuing to prioritize these projects thoughtfully, we can ensure Claremont remains a strong, thriving community for years to come.
